Extract the eternal from the ephemeral. - Charles Baudelaire

Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!

The phrase "a literature of decadence" implies a scale of literature: infancy, childhood, adolescence, etc. This term, I would say, supposes something fateful and providential, like an inescapable decree; and it is completely unjust to reproach us for the fulfillment of a law that is mysterious. All I can understand of this academic saying is that it is shameful to obey this law pleasurably, and that we are guilty of rejoicing in our destiny.

Faire son devoir tous les jours et se fier à Dieu, pour le lendemain.